Bukayo Saka pleased with Manchester United win despite 'sloppy' Arsenal display and 'impressed' by Viktor Gyokeres
By Ben Southby
Published 18/08/2025 at 18:01 GMT+1
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Arsenal began their 2025/26 Premier League campaign with a battling win over Manchester United on Sunday, and although "happy" with the result, Bukayo Saka admitted The Gunners were "not up to usual standards". The England winger expressed that improvements are needed, while adding that Viktor Gyokeres "battled" well for Mikel Arteta's side in a difficult debut for the Swedish striker.
‘Proud’ Arteta explains positives in Arsenal’s ‘big’ win at Man Utd
Video credit: SNTV
Bukayo Saka has said that he is "happy" with Arsenal's opening Premier League win over Manchester United despite an underwhelming performance, and was "impressed" by new signing Viktor Gyokeres.
The Gunners snatched a gritty 1-0 win at Old Trafford thanks to Riccardo Calafiori's close-range header, extending the club's impressive unbeaten streak against the 'big six' sides to 22 games.
Despite collecting all three points in a difficult start to the season, the England winger is well aware that there is work to do as they look to end their 21-year wait for a league title.
"It was not a great performance," Saka admitted. "We are happy with the three points, to come away from Old Trafford with a win.
"We were not up to our usual standards, the basics, sloppy giveaways. Our decision-making was not great and that cost us and gave United a lot of momentum.
"We did not get punished for it, but we cannot do it every game."
Meanwhile, Gyokeres made his highly anticipated competitive debut for the club following his £63.5 million move from Sporting CP this summer.
The Swedish striker drew some harsh criticism following his display, where he failed to make much of an impact in front of goal.
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However, Saka was pleased with the way his new team-mate began his Gunners career, despite not finding the net in his first game, and focused on the qualities he brought on Sunday.
"I was impressed with him and he battled for us," Saka said about the 27-year-old, who scored 97 goals in 102 games for the Portuguese club.
"It was tough. There was a big battle up there.
"I thought he did well. His performance gives us something to build on, and I am sure it will help him next week.
"He has slotted in well and so have the other guys."
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Viktor Gyokeres during Arsenal's Premier League match against Manchetser United.
Image credit: Getty Images
Following a terrific result on the opening weekend, Mikel Arteta's side welcome Premier League newcomers Leeds United to Emirates Stadium on Saturday August 23.
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